Abstract
It seems likely that the tightness of tissue influences a patient's disposition to disc hernia. The aim of this study was to compare the mechanical behaviour of tissue from disc hernia patients with that of controls. A computerized finger hyperextensometer was constructed, which allowed the measurement of the viscoelastic properties of the capsule and ligaments at the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint. The disc group showed a reduced maximal extension angle of MCP joint II (P < 0.01), reduced tissue recovery value (P < 0.05), reduced relative subsecant area (P < 0.01) and relative integral of the regression curve (P < 0.01). The results indicate that an anulus fibrosus with reduced extension properties, reduced capacity of energy absorption and retarded shape recovery disposes to rupture.
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Weh, L., Petau, C. Tissue tightness disposes to disc hernia. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 114, 97–99 (1995). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00422834
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00422834